Italo-Maltese Relations, 1980-2000

Abstract

The relations with Italy are the strongholds of Malta's foreign policy, forged by an expression of common solidarity. The Italian government demonstrated its continuing commitment to the relations between the two countries through its support for Malta in its development process. The relations between Malta and Italy go beyond cultural, historical and geographical proximity, which were enhanced since Malta's independence in 1964. This bond of solidarity has grown into a consolidated network of bilateral, regional and multilateral political cooperation. The four successive protocols signed between Italy and Malta since 1979, testify and give concrete expression to this cooperation. The protocols undertook projects and programmes crucial to Malta's development. However, these have to be viewed within a deeper context of political cooperation. By virtue of the protocols, assistance made available has been a crucial element in supporting sustainable development in the fields of education, culture, infrastructure, industry, health and environment. The protocols have therefore served as an underlying mechanism for cooperation. Italian assistance has been and continues to be consistent. Relations continued to unfold with the signing of the Fifth Financial Protocol designed to provide assistance to Malta in the phase leading to its full membership in the European Union.